There are lots of great tours available on this site, which begin (or end) at a Ski area. A bit of courtesy and respect for the operations and hazards will go a long way to keeping relations with the areas positive, and the access as open as possible.

This guideline was developed by the Federated Mountain Clubs of New Zealand, with support from the New Zealand Alpine Club. The guideline received feedback and support from 23 Ski Areas throughout Aotearoa. You can download this guideline as a one page PDF.

Talk to Ski patrol

It’s in everyone’s best interest to have open communication

• Find out about snow and avalanche conditions and current ski field operations.
• If requested, leave your intentions and ensure you sign back in.

Respect the field

Everyone wants to have a good day out on the hill, a little respect goes a long way.

• Each mountain is different, always check out the field’s website for advice and the latest updates before you leave home.
• Skin or hike where you are not a hazard to field users.
• Respect closed areas.
• Follow the field’s advice about when and where to travel through the field. (So that you are not exposed to dangerous ski field operations like avalanche bombing, de-icing, helicopters, snowmobile routes, winch groomers and cables, which can all kill.)
• Find out the ski area’s policy on leaving your vehicle there outside of operational hours.
• Do not interfere with field operations or be a nuisance.
• Respect the ski area’
• s generosity if they allow one-ride tickets.

Respect the backcountry

One step beyond the field boundary is the backcountry!

• Plan and prepare for your trip.
• Research private property boundaries (www.WAMS.org.nz); get permission before you go.
• Take an avalanche awareness course or consider hiring a guide.
• Check the avalanche advisory. (www.avalanche.net.nz)
• Always take shovel, beacon and probe, and ensure you know how to use them.
• Consider taking an emergency response device, such as a personal locator beacon.
• Make room between people and groups when travelling.
• Always tell a responsible person your trip plan, when you plan to return and when they should notify emergency services.
• Check in with that responsible person when you are safely off the mountain.
• Never travel alone in the backcountry.

Thank you to the Federated Mountain Clubs of NZ, the New Zealand Alpine Club and all these ski areas for their help in creating this guideline;